Gus Bilirakis: “As co-chair of both the Hellenic Caucus and the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance, I rise tonight with my…”

“As co-chair of both the Hellenic Caucus and the Congressional Hellenic-Israel Alliance, I rise tonight with my colleagues to provide an update on one of the United States' most strategic allies, the Republic of Cyprus. Sadly, Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 44th anniversary of the illegal invasion and occupation of 40,000 Turkish troops in Cyprus. Turkey, a NATO ally, must cease its inflammatory rhetoric, normalize relations with the Republic of Cyprus, and commit to peacefully working toward a negotiated solution. Greek and Turkish Cypriots, Mr. Speaker, deserve an end to the senseless division and occupation. Despite the challenge of continued occupation, Cyprus has long been a strong and faithful ally of the United States. Due to Cyprus' unique geopolitical role in the eastern Mediterranean, it is in the best interests of our country, the United States of America, to support peace and the end of this illegal occupation. Cyprus' special geopolitical position stems from its location at the southeasternmost corner of the EU. The eastern Mediterranean is turbulent, Mr. Speaker, but holds a promise of significant opportunity. Cyprus' status as an EU member state, as well as its excellent longstanding relations with its neighbors, enhances its strategic importance to the United States.…”